Qixian County, Jinzhong, Shanxi — a National Famous Historical and Cultural City and the core birthplace of Shanxi merchant culture. Represented by Qiao Family Compound, Qixian Ancient City, and Qu Family Compound, it epitomizes the essence of Shanxi merchant heritage. A 3-day 2-night deep dive takes you to the cradle of the "Chinese Wall Street," unveiling the wealth, patriotism, and cultural depth of the Shanxi merchants.
Visit the magnificent Qiao Family Compound, explore Qixian Ancient City, uncover the secrets of Qu Family Compound, savor authentic Shanxi merchant banquets, and unlock the cultural and financial legacy of the Shanxi merchant homeland.
Morning: Explore Qiao Family Compound and admire Shanxi merchant architectural art. Afternoon: Stroll through Qixian Ancient City and soak in the street culture of the "干"-shaped layout. Evening: Savor the Qiao Family Eight-Bowl Banquet and enjoy the lantern-lit nightscape of the ancient city.
Morning: Visit Qu Family Compound to witness the grandeur of "Half the City Belongs to Qu." Afternoon: Climb Zhenhe Tower for a panoramic view of the ancient post town. Explore the Shanxi Merchant Culture Museum to understand draft bank history. Evening: Visit He Family Compound to appreciate private collections.
Morning: Experience the blend of natural landscapes and historical sites at Jiugou Scenic Area. Afternoon: Pick fresh seasonal crisp pears at a local orchard. Evening: Shop for local specialties on the ancient city's specialty street before concluding your journey through the Shanxi merchant homeland.
A classic Shanxi merchant banquet consisting of eight large bowls, including Fried Pork Slices (Guoyou Rou), Crispy Fried Pork (Xiao Surou), and Braised Chicken. Balancing meat and vegetables, it embodies the Shanxi merchant hospitality code. It is the representative of traditional Qixian banquets, said to have been exclusively served to guests of the Qiao family.
A specialty of Jialing Town, Qixian, dating back to the Qing Dynasty. Made from pork and smoked over cypress wood, it boasts tender meat and a rich aroma. Praised as the "Crown of Shanxi Smoked Meats," it is a premium choice for entertaining guests and gifting.
A National Geographical Indication product with over 2,000 years of cultivation history in Qixian. The fruit is large, thin-skinned, juicy, and sweet, known as the "Sweet Dew among Fruits." It can be eaten fresh or processed into pear paste and dried pears.
A traditional Qixian snack made from buckwheat flour, available as "Pagao" (steamed) or "Wantuo" (bowl-jelly). It can be served cold with dressing or stir-fried. Paired with local vinegar and chili oil, it offers a chewy, tangy, and spicy flavor—a common street delicacy throughout the town.